Virginia § 18.2-52.1 - Possession of infectious biological substances or radiological agents; penalties
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-52.1 — Possession of infectious biological substances or radiological agents; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.2-52.1. Possession of infectious biological substances or radiological agents; penalties
A. Any person who possesses, with the intent thereby to injure another, an infectious biological substance or radiological agent is guilty of a Class 5 felony.
B. Any person who (i) destroys or damages, or attempts to destroy or damage, any facility, equipment or material involved in the sale, manufacturing, storage or distribution of an infectious biological substance or radiological agent, with the intent to injure another by releasing the substance, or (ii) manufactures, sells, gives, distributes or uses an infectious biological substance or radiological agent with the intent to injure another is guilty of a Class 4 felony.
C. Any person who maliciously and intentionally causes any other person bodily injury by means of an infectious biological substance or radiological agent is guilty of a felony and shall be punished by confinement in a state correctional facility for a period of not less than five years nor more than 30 years.
D. For purposes of this section:
An "infectious biological substance" includes any bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, or rickettsiae capable of causing death or serious bodily injury. "Infectious biological substance" does not include the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or any other related virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), syphilis, or hepatitis B.
A "radiological agent" includes any substance able to release radiation at levels that are capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
1996, c. 769; 2002, cc. 588, 623, 816; 2004, c. 833; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 465.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-52.1
What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-52.1 cover?
Section 18.2-52.1 ("Possession of infectious biological substances or radiological agents; penalties") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 18.2-52.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-52.1" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 18.2-52.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.